Jean Cocteau et Son Temps 1965

This stunning 1965 original exhibition poster was created for Jean Cocteau et son Temps, a retrospective held at the Musée Jacquemart-André in Paris. The exhibition celebrated the life and artistic legacy of Jean Cocteau (1889–1963), one of France’s most versatile and influential creators—poet, playwright, filmmaker, and visual artist.

The poster features a 1916 portrait of Jean Cocteau drawn by Pablo Picasso, one of his close friends and artistic collaborators. Rendered in delicate yet expressive charcoal lines, Picasso captures Cocteau’s youthful intensity, with deep-set eyes and an air of intellectual curiosity. The inscription, written in Picasso’s hand, reads “À mon ami Jean Cocteau” (To my friend Jean Cocteau), underscoring their deep artistic connection.

Designed with a minimalist yet elegant aesthetic, the poster’s subdued beige background enhances the timeless quality of Picasso’s drawing. The bold navy-blue typography contrasts beautifully, drawing attention to Cocteau’s name and the exhibition details.

Held from March to May 1965, Jean Cocteau et son Temps showcased the poet’s multifaceted career, highlighting his role in avant-garde movements such as Surrealism, Dada, and Symbolism. The exhibition likely included his sketches, manuscripts, and cinematic works, reinforcing his enduring impact on 20th-century art and culture.

This rare poster is highly collectible, not only for its connection to Cocteau but also for the presence of Picasso’s artwork, making it a prized piece for admirers of modern art and literary history.

Exhibition - Literature

Museum Jacquemart André - Portrait

Mourlot

Good condition, one small tear